Last year I decided that every year we would have a family theme and word. Last year our word was focus. I wanted us to focus on the future, and to focus on the positive in life and not get stuck on the negative. Throughout 2010 we had a lot of positive and negative things happen to our little family. Despite all we've been through we are grateful for our health, the health of our family members, and for the job that Chris currently has. The past few days I have really been pondering and praying about what the focus of this next year should be for us. It wasn't until reading the Ensign today where I found the theme for our family.
Our family theme for 2011 comes for the talk "Make Yours A Great Life" by Elder Paul V. Johnson. Our theme is... "Your future is not determined by the conditions around you. It is determined by your faith, your choices, and your efforts." Throughout this year I want our family to be happy no matter where we live, and no matter what trials come our way. The article talks about historical figures who were faced with some major challenges, and how they got through them and didn't let them define who they were. I hope that through our trials we will make our lives great.
Our family word this year is Patience. Big word, and very difficult to achieve. However, with the Lord's help I know that our family will learn the true meaning of the word. I am not a patient person. When I want something I don't want to wait for it. I want to know where we will be in 2 months, 6 months etc. I want to lose 40 pounds by next week, have kid's without trying, not having to wait 9 months to see if we will get to take the baby home, where Chris will work. The list goes on and on and on and on. Waiting for Arista's arrival was one of the biggest trials of patience. I know that the Lord works in his own time and that if we are faithful and keep the commandments he will fulfill the desires of our heart. Although it can take quite a while sometimes, with patience it will become possible. This year our family is going to work on our patience and live more in the moment, and try to not worry what tomorrow brings.
I invite you to read this talk, whether you are lds or not. It really spoke to me, and kicked off my new year.
4 comments:
A family thene -such cool idea for a family to do. Patience is one that is hard but I feel like we need more of too!! Thanks for sharing that talk. Happy New Year. PS You are looking smokin'! Love the new hair color on you too.
Thanks for sharing such an inspiring and beautiful message! I'll make that my theme for 2011!
Waiting is hard for most people, and your post made me think of the trials we have had and the patience we have had to develop. One of the gifts that age brings is the ability to look back to the outcomes of previous trials and, remembering that they had an end, and also brought blessings, makes it easier to have patience with current trials. Bless you all as you move forward into your future. I think your idea of a yearly theme and word will really help to provide direction and a firm foundation for your family. I hope the year ahead is a great one for all of you.
Lisa G-K
Patience is your middle name! I have no doubt you'll have this mastered in no time flat! :) Love you!
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